India has approved the use of two vaccines for emergency cases of COVID-19. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced reservation of the first vaccine batch for front line workers such as doctors, MBBS students, cleaners, policemen, etc, followed by elderly people and common people. However, there is a lot of misinformation floating around the use, effect, and application of vaccines. In order to clear the air, here are the top ten things to know for COVID vaccine in India:
- Oxford-AstraZeneca’s CoviShield and Bharat Biotech’s COVAXIN are the only two vaccines approved for administration in India.
- Two doses of the vaccine are supplied via injection. There needs to be a gap of four to six weeks between the two doses and anyone with an allergic reaction to the initial dose is recommended to avoid the second.
- COVAXIN, the most commonly available vaccine can be administered in the upper arm region only.
- Rashes, dizziness, and difficulty in breathing are some of the most common adverse reaction to the vaccine.
- Vaccine companies suggest that immunity is observed after four weeks of the second dose. Therefore, precautions need to be undertaken before and after the vaccine course is complete.
- Individuals can apply for an administration slot through the Co-WIN website or mobile app directly linked with the National Health Portal – Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).
- 12 documents (with photo) for identity such as Aadhar, passport, license, etc, will be needed for self-registration. The beneficiary will receive details about the date, place, and time via SMS.
- After the vaccine course is complete, the beneficiary will receive a certificate via QR code at his/her registered mobile number.
- According to the government, �Vaccine is Voluntary’. Recovered personnel is advised to take the vaccine for improved immunity while suspected and confirmed COVID-19 patients can take the vaccine after 14 days of symptom resolution.
- Pregnant, allergic, breastfeeding and people with blood disorders cannot take COVAXIN due to high-risk factors.
Got any queries? Let us know in the comments below.
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